Board authorizes contract for seven New Flyer battery-electric buses amid debate on BEB reliability and facilities costs

The SFMTA board on Feb. 4 authorized the director to execute a contract with New Flyer of America to procure four 40-foot and three 60-foot battery-electric buses, associated spare parts, tools and training for up to approximately $13.4 million over five years.

Bob Incatchery, SFMTA's zero-emission program manager, said the procurement is part of a larger FT-110 project to replace 112 aging hybrid buses and to pilot battery-electric buses while maintaining fleet reliability. He said federal grants and other funding sources support much of the FT-110 project, though a modest funding gap affects future procurements and facilities work. Joseph Tabora presented the budget breakdown and said the New Flyer contract is fully funded.

Public commenters and industry representatives urged careful analysis of operational reliability and facility readiness. Alex Lansberg of the electrical construction industry said early pilots found lower availability and warned agencies often need higher spare ratios and additional capital to avoid service disruption; other commenters cited FTA reports on issues experienced by peer agencies. Several transit-rider groups urged transparency about alternatives and long-term fleet strategy.

Board members asked about comparative lifecycle costs between battery-electric buses, trolley buses and hybrid models; staff said BEBs currently carry a premium of roughly 30% to 40% over hybrids and that facility and energy costs are significant factors. Acting Director Kirschbaum and staff emphasized a mixed procurement strategy (some BEBs, some hybrids, continued trolley investment) to manage risk while meeting state electrification requirements through 2040.

The board approved the New Flyer contract by roll-call vote.